Strong efforts across the board propelled Oblong High School's girls' basketball team to a big win Thursday night (Jan. 3).

The Lady Panthers played well virtually from start to finish and picked up a 61-55 win at Brownstown-St. Elmo in non-conference play.

"This was a great team win," OHS head coach Tim Johnson said. "Everybody stepped up tonight. Once we got the lead, we never gave it back."

In a tight first quarter, Oblong managed to come away with an 18-16 lead after the first eight minutes. The Lady Panthers then outscored Brownstown-St. Elmo 15-11 in the second quarter to take a 33-27 lead at halftime. Oblong also won the third quarter 14-9 to extend their advantage to 47-36 heading into the final period. Brownstown-St. Elmo tried to stage a rally, as they outscored Oblong 19-14 in the fourth quarter, but the Lady Panthers were able to hold on for the win.

The three-point line proved huge for the Lady Panthers, as 10 of their 22 field goals in the game came from long distance, while Brownstown-St. Elmo connected on seven three-pointers.

Abbie Dart led OHS with 24 points - including five three-pointers - and four steals, while Nyah Laino posted 19 points, including three three-pointers, five rebounds and one assist. Katie Cheek contributed 13 points, 15 rebounds, two blocked shots and one assist, Aireka Burke netted three points, two steals, one rebound and one assist and Maggie Cross added two points and four rebounds.

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